BACUP Library will be closed for almost four months from today for a major re-fit.

Staff have confirmed there will be an extensive internal redecoration of the St James Square building, with movable shelving fitted to allow for a wide range of community events.

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The existing computer suite will be relocated to the mezzanine floor and three computers will be stationed in the junior section, which will remain in its current position.

Plans are also in place for a disabled ramp to be fitted to the historic county council building, which is Grade II listed and first opened as a Mechanics Institute in 1846. A provisional re-opening date of Monday, April 27 has been set.

Cllr Alyson Barnes, who represents Rossendale North, said the refurbishments were originally suggested several years ago but never carried out. However, the Bacup site had been added to the ‘Regenerate’ library revamp scheme following lobbying by Cllr Sean Serridge, she added.

Cllr Jimmy Eaton, who represents the town’s Greensclough ward on the borough council, added: “The improvements are much-needed and I hope everyone will welcome them when the library reopens in April.”

It is understood that the library improvements are part of a £500,000 project which will also see Whitworth’s Lloyd Street library revamped later in the year.

Cllr Serridge added: “It’s disappointing that the library will be closed for a while, but I’m sure library users will agree the renovation is long overdue.

“I am delighted that we have managed to secure the money to carry out the work in Bacup.

“There are other libraries in Rossendale, including Whitworth, that are also in need of renovation work, and I will continue to fight for the money to carry out that work as well.”

Library users in Bacup are being redirected to services at Rawtenstall and Whitworth until the work is complete.